Analyzing the Phoenix Suns 2017 NBA Draft Picks

Written by Jacob Evans on 28 June 2017

The Phoenix Suns had the 4th and 32nd pick in this year's NBA draft. Let's take a look at who they selected.

Pick #4, Round 1: Josh Jackson - SF - Kansas

Jackson is an elite athlete that can contribute on both ends of the floor. He's arguably the best defender in this draft and knows how to use his length and physical tools to stay in front of opponents. Jackson is the perfect defender for the modern NBA, able to guard positions 1-4 on the court. Offensively, he'll be an excellent complementary piece to third-year guard Devin Booker. The Kansas swingman can score off the dribble with a lethal first step and can effortlessly finish above the rim. His shot constitutes the biggest flaw in his game, but Jackson's high motor, explosiveness, and defensive upside make him the perfect fit for a rebuilding Suns team that needs versatility.

Pick #32, Round 2: Davon Reed - SG - Miami

The Suns clearly have prioritized versatility in this draft, something both Jackson and Reed possess. Reed looks the part of a modern 3-and-D role player, with a fluid shot from beyond the arc and an elite 7-foot wingspan. His length, combined with his 6'6 height and solid frame of 208 lbs, project him to be a very good, possibly elite, defender. Though he lacks explosiveness and doesn't have a lot of creativity off the bounce, his defensive tools, and three-point shooting will make him a good role player for the Suns in the future.

Pick #54, Round 2: Alec Peters - PF - Valparaiso

Peters has one clear cut NBA skill - shooting. For a player of his size (6'9), Peters can shoot the lights out from the perimeter. He also became more comfortable shooting off the dribble during his senior season at Valpo, knocking down 33 percent of his pull-up jumpers. Though Peters was much more than a shooter at the collegiate level, his average physical tools will make it much harder for him to score against elite athletes in the NBA. Still, Peters' shooting ability at the power forward spot gives the Suns offense some much-needed versatility.